Functional Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (FESS)

This operation is performed using an endoscope, a rigid tube with a light on one end. The tube is threaded into your nose and up into the sinus openings. Using this technique, your sinuses can be drained and the sinus openings can be enlarged, allowing better drainage in the future. If polyps (benign growths) are discovered, they can be removed. This type of sinus surgery has a high rate of success and a low rate of complications. However, if complications occur, they may be serious.

Conventional Open Sinus Surgery

Conventional open sinus surgery is also used to enlarge the sinuses for better drainage. Infected sinus linings may be removed during this procedure. Now that FESS is such a successful method, this type of surgery is rarely used. In general, if it is recommended that you have conventional sinus surgery, you should get a second opinion.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.